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Published on: November 8, 2024
Long-term objective results of proximal phalanx fracture treatment
Derya Ozçelik1, Gaye Toplu, Toygar Unveren
1Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Düzce University Faculty of Medicine, Düzce, Turkey. deryaozcelik68@yahoo.com
Background:
Proximal phalanx fractures are common. In this study, our preferred methods regarding the treatment of proximal phalanx fractures and their long-term objective results are presented.
Methods:
Between October 2001 and March 2010, in the Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Department of Düzce Medical Faculty, we treated 23 patients with 32 proximal phalanx fractures. Stable fractures (n=5) were treated with splints, while unstable fractures (n=27) were stabilized with 1.0 mm percutaneous intramedullary Kirschner wires following open reduction.
Results:
At follow-ups, ranging from 3 months to 9 years, patients were evaluated with radiologic efficiency, range of motion (ROM), total active movements (TAM), and grip power of the digit. TAM scores of 20 fingers were perfect (≥220° for D2-5, ≥150° for D1), for 7 fingers were good (180- 220° for D2-5, 120-150° for D1), and for 5 fingers were either moderate or poor. No difference was observed between grip strength of broken fingers and that of healthy fingers. As a major complication, non-union occurred in one finger.
Conclusion:
We concluded that Kirschner wire fixation is a reliable and simple method of treating unstable proximal phalangeal fractures, and excellent long-term results can be obtained in suitable cases. In stable proximal phalanx fractures, splints provide sufficient treatment.
